Indulge in the luxurious tenderness of filet mignon with this Peppercorn-Crusted masterpiece.

The filet mignon is coated in a flavorful blend of crushed peppercorns, seared to perfection, and drizzled with a rich red wine reduction. This elegant dish is perfect for a special occasion or a gourmet dinner at home.

Ingredients:

For the Peppercorn-Crusted Filet Mignon:

• 4 filet mignon steaks (6 oz each)
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons mixed whole peppercorns (black, white, green, pink)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3-4 sprigs of fresh thyme

For the Red Wine Reduction:

• 1 cup red wine (choose a good quality red wine)
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon shallots, finely minced
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Preparing the Peppercorn-Crusted Filet Mignon

1. Crush Peppercorns:
   • Using a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder, crush the mixed peppercorns until coarsely ground.
2. Season Filet Mignon:
   • Season the filet mignon steaks with salt to taste.
3. Coat with Crushed Peppercorns:
   • Press the crushed peppercorns onto both sides of each filet, ensuring an even coating.
4. Preheat Skillet:
   • In a heavy skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
5. Sear Filet Mignon:
   • Sear the filet mignon for 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, adjusting the time according to your desired level of doneness. Add butter and fresh thyme during the last minute of cooking, basting the steaks for added flavor.
6. Rest the Filet:
   • Remove the filet mignon from the skillet and let them rest on a plate, covered with foil, while you prepare the red wine reduction.

Step 2: Making the Red Wine Reduction

1. Deglaze Skillet:
   • In the same skillet, add minced shallots and cook until softened. Deglaze the pan with red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
2. Add Balsamic Vinegar and Broth:
   • Stir in balsamic vinegar and beef broth. Simmer until the liquid is reduced by half.
3. Finish with Butter:
   • Swirl in butter to finish the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 3: Serving

1. Plate Filet Mignon:
   • Place the peppercorn-crusted filet mignon on serving plates.
2. Drizzle with Red Wine Reduction:
   • Spoon the rich red wine reduction over each filet.
3. Garnish and Enjoy:
   • Garnish with additional fresh thyme leaves if desired. Serve immediately, and savor the exquisite flavors of this Peppercorn-Crusted Filet Mignon.

Serving Suggestions:

• Mashed Potatoes or Creamy Polenta:
  • Serve the filet mignon with a side of velvety mashed potatoes or creamy polenta to soak up the luscious red wine reduction.
• Roasted Vegetables:
  • Pair with a medley of roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious accompaniment.

Conclusion:

This Peppercorn-Crusted Filet Mignon with Red Wine Reduction is a culinary delight that combines the melt-in-your-mouth tenderness of filet mignon with the bold flavors of crushed peppercorns and a luxurious red wine reduction. Perfect for an intimate dinner or a celebratory occasion, this dish elevates the classic steak experience to a gourmet level. Enjoy each savory and succulent bite!